Wine experts will examine 2,345 different varietal and fortified wines, as well as brandy, from wine regions across Australia as part of the 2013 Macquarie Group Sydney Royal Wine Show.

Chairman of Judges, Iain Riggs will lead five panels of industry experts over a four day period as they taste wines spanning four main sections: large volume, varietal, premium and named vineyard and 79 classes.

Chuck Hayward, Australian and New Zealand wine buyer, JJ Buckley has been named the international guest judge at the show, a role he says he is “humbled and honoured” by.

"Judging at the Sydney Royal Wine Show will provide a unique opportunity to assess the latest releases from Australia’s wine regions, while being introduced to the latest developments in wine styles,” he says.

Lyndey Milan, wine committee chair, Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) said Hayward is quite the expert when it comes to imported Australian and New Zealand wines, and he is a seasoned judge, having appeared at numerous domestic and international wine shows over the years.

“His attendance at the Sydney Royal Wine Show will prove an exciting prospect for our exhibitors, as Chuck conducts regular educational seminars for both trade and consumers focusing on New Zealand and Australian wines,” she said.

A total of 37 trophies will be awarded during the show, and numerous gold, silver and bronze medals will also be handed out.

The show will also see Sydney Royal host a collaborative meeting with key Capital City Wine Show representatives to discuss future progress for the Australian Wine Show system.

The McWilliams Wine Academy Judging Experience will also take place on 7 February at the Sydney Showground.

“The McWilliams Wine Academy Judging Experience will see a select group of up and coming industry participants benchmark their skills and knowledge against the expert,” says Milan.

“The Macquarie Group Sydney Royal Wine Show is not only committed to awarding the best of the best, but also ensuring that the level of quality is maintained in the years to come, particularly through educational initiatives.”

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